SAFe Scrum Master (Scaled Agile) and Certified ScrumMaster (Scrum Alliance) (Scrum Alliance) cover different bodies of knowledge. Here's how they compare side by side — and how to pick the one that fits your role.
The fastest way to see which credential fits your experience and goals.
| SAFe SSMSAFe Scrum Master | CSM®Certified ScrumMaster (Scrum Alliance) | |
|---|---|---|
| Level | Intermediate | Foundation |
| Exam length | 1h 30m | 1h 0m |
| Questions (real exam) | ~45 | ~50 |
| Pass mark | 73% | 74% |
| In a sentence | Scrum Master inside the Agile Release Train. | The classic Scrum Master certification. |
| Free practice | 109 sample questions | 149 sample questions |
Exam parameters are compiled from each vendor's official exam guide. Always confirm the current format, eligibility and fees on the official Scaled Agile and Scrum Alliance site before booking. ExamDeck is an independent study tool and is not affiliated with Scaled Agile or Scrum Alliance.
Figures as published by each vendor, transcribed on the date shown. Where a vendor prices differently for members, both prices are listed.
| SAFe SSMfacts as of September 2026 | CSM®facts as of August 2026 | |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | 2-day SSM course (optional since Sep 2026): includes first two exam attempts within 60 days Exam-only proctored route: $495 + tax, two attempts within 60 days (checked 24 Sep 2026) Retake — unproctored: $50 (0/10/30-day waits) Retake — proctored: $450 study guide / $495 retake FAQ Renewal (annual): SAFe Foundational Studio membership $195/yr + tax, 12 CEUs (verified 18 Sep 2026) |
CSM course (required): ~$250–1,500+ — set by trainer; incl. exam + 2 attempts Extra retake: $25 Membership: 2 years included Renewal (every 2 yrs): 20 SEUs + $100 |
| Study time | the 16-hour course plus commonly reported 5–10 hours of self-study | the 14–16-hour course itself; attentive participants typically pass right after it |
| Renewal | Annual renewal via SAFe Foundational Studio membership ($195/year + tax) plus 12 CEUs a year — no re-exam (verified 18 Sep 2026) | Every 2 years — 20 Scrum Education Units (SEUs) plus a $100 renewal fee |
| Entry requirement | Course route: the official 2-day SAFe Scrum Master course (taught by an authorized SPC), which includes the first two attempts. | Completion of a CSM course from a Scrum Alliance Certified Scrum Trainer is required — 16 hours in person or 14 hours live-online. No self-study path exists. |
| Body of knowledge | the SAFe 6.0 framework | the Scrum Guide (2020) and Scrum Alliance CSM Learning Objectives |
| Full fact pages | SAFe SSM cost · format · eligibility | CSM® cost · format · eligibility |
Compare the three-year cost of any two certifications, member or not, with the certification cost calculator.
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SAFe SSM (SAFe Scrum Master) is a Scaled Agile intermediate credential, while CSM® (Certified ScrumMaster (Scrum Alliance)) comes from Scrum Alliance (foundation). They cover different bodies of knowledge, so the choice depends on the role you're aiming for rather than difficulty alone.
The SAFe SSM exam runs about 1h 30m with ~45 questions; the CSM® exam runs about 1h 0m with ~50 questions. The more senior credential generally demands more applied, scenario-based judgement.
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